Cesky Krumlov had spoilt us. So had Austria before that. No reason why Prague would be any different. And so, our gastronomical journey across the Czech Republic continued in Prague too….much to our delight!
(Read: Do-Not-Miss Restaurants of Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic and Do-Not-Miss Restaurants of Austria)
It started with the local joint, Restaurace U Červeného Kola, which the manager of our hotel in Prague, Hastal, recommended to us immediately upon checking in. With that, we were convinced that food in Prague would be fun. We discovered a local favourite we had never seen on a menu before — Grilled Snails! We couldn’t leave Prague without trying this. Served with herb butter, pesto sauce accompanied with grilled toast, it was absolutely delicious and left us wanting for more. For mains we had a yumm Salmon Steak and Stroganoff Beef Tenderloin with rice.
Remember, most traditional Czech dishes consists of roast pork, beef, duck etc. with different sauces, served with potatoes and dumplings as accompaniments. This creates a ‘problem of plenty’, quite seriously – the hard core non-vegetarian me would swoon over the menu cards!!!
We mostly went for the Goulashes (Venison is highly recommended), roast ducks and of course the infamous 1.2 Kgs of Pork Knuckles! There are more than enough fish and vegetarian options available in every restaurant. A couple of restaurants we’d like to recommend when you are in Prague —
Lokal Dlouhaaa, Prague: Lokal Dlouhaaa is a must visit if you want to get a feel of the famed Czechs’ love of beers and pubs. It is one of the most happening places in Prague, at budget cost though. A huge restaurant, local beer flows like water. It’s a high energy ambience here, food is good – book your table is highly recommended as it is almost impossible to get one out here. Reach early if you didn’t book!
Restaurant Kolonial & Restaurant Mlejnice (Near the Jewish Quarters) Wonderful places for roasts and local food, service is a huge dampener since the staff is rude! Ignore it since it seems to be a standard everywhere there. Racism is also rampant, but not on the face. Would recommend the latter strongly for excellent beer and food, one of the most popular places in that area.
Krčma U Pavouka (near the Square): This one has great local food, huge servings and excellent beer. Designed like a medivial tavern, it holds an exotic dance show every evening which is very popular with tourists. At some Czk 1190 per head for a 5-course dinner and unlimited drinks, it’s not really too expensive. But hold on, the place is not suitable for families. Expect loud, boisterous and drunk tourists near you, having a good time.
(Want to plan a holiday in Czech Republic? We help you with the itinerary, sightseeing suggestions, places to stay, where and what to eat. Read our post — All about a Czech Holiday)